Is it necessary for the owner to be present when registering a used car?

[VonOlivia]

It is not mandatory for the owner to be present during the registration of a used car; a proxy can be authorized to handle the transfer procedures. Below are the details: 1. Choosing a proxy to handle the transfer: The vehicle transfer process can be time-consuming and involves numerous formalities. If the owner is unable to be present for the transfer, they can authorize an agent or seek assistance from a broker. Many DMV offices have brokers available who can help with vehicle inspections, transfers, and handling violations. 2. Important considerations: Purchasing a used car from another location involves several factors to consider. If you plan to drive the car back home yourself, you must apply for a temporary license plate at the local DMV. However, if the distance is considerable, it is not advisable to drive the car back; instead, it is better to hire a flatbed tow truck to transport the vehicle. Before purchasing a used car, thoroughly inspect the vehicle's documentation to ensure a smooth transfer. Failing to carefully check the vehicle's paperwork at the time of purchase can lead to complications during future transfers or registrations, potentially making the process impossible. Therefore, the first step in buying a used car is not to inspect the vehicle's condition but to verify the documentation to ensure a hassle-free transfer.

[CharlesFitz]

Registering a used car does not require the owner to handle it in person; it can be fully delegated to an agent. I recently helped a friend with this process—he was away on business and couldn’t return, so he wrote a power of attorney for me and provided a copy of his ID card. The vehicle management office mainly checks if the materials are complete, such as the vehicle registration certificate, purchase invoice, and compulsory insurance policy. When acting as an agent, I also needed to present my original ID card and sign my name in the agent column when filling out the forms. The whole process went smoothly and was completed in one morning. However, regulations may vary slightly by region, so it’s advisable to call the local vehicle management office in advance to check if a notarized power of attorney is required, to avoid a wasted trip.

[VanTimothy]

I just helped my family member complete the used car license plate registration, and indeed, the owner doesn't need to be present in person. The key is to prepare a handwritten letter of authorization, clearly stating the information of the principal and the agent, as well as the details of the license plate application, with both parties signing and fingerprinting. Bring a copy of the principal's ID card, my original ID card, along with basic documents like the vehicle transfer invoice and the vehicle registration certificate. The DMV counter verifies the materials very carefully, but the process isn't complicated. Nowadays, many cities also promote online authorization applications, making it even more convenient by uploading materials directly through the 12123 APP. However, for on-site processing, it's advisable to go early to queue up.

[LaKennedy]

You don't necessarily have to handle the second-hand car license plate registration in person; hiring an agent is very convenient. I often help friends with this matter, and the key materials required are just three: copies of both parties' ID cards, a handwritten power of attorney, and the vehicle's documentation. The power of attorney template can be found online, and it should specify the license plate type and the scope of authorization. The vehicle management office mainly verifies the authenticity of the information, and the agent must also sign and confirm on the service form. Transferring an out-of-town license plate may involve additional steps, such as an emissions test. If the car owner is out of town, it's advisable to courier the materials to the agent in advance to ensure everything is ready. The entire process is more time-saving and less labor-intensive than handling it personally.